Acquisition (takeover) or merger
A merger is the synergy or combination of two companies which are roughly equal in size by consensus of two organisations. A takeover is where one company acquires other which is more hostile.
- Synergy/economies of scale as the merged entity increases in size
- Eliminates competition e.g. if horizontal integration
- Rapid acquisition or synergy of expertise/brands/market share
- Could be a bargain if target company an 'underachiever'